What technology means for the future of business travel?

Research reveals that business travel accounts for USD 1.3 trillion of global travel spending annually and is set to rise at 3.7% per annum over the next ten years.

Business travel is often thought of as solely a necessity for getting from one meeting to another, yet it drives the success of every business in the world.

A recent report from the World Travel and Tourism Council and Travelport revealed that business travel accounts for $1.3 trillion of global travel spending annually, and is set to rise at 3.7% per annum over the next ten years. One key reason for this impressive growth has been the industry’s adoption of pioneering technology.

Consumers today have become used to using a host of apps and increasingly smart devices to enhance their daily lives.

However, apps are only one small aspect of the technological opportunities that the business travel industry can jump on. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is slowly being introduced into the tourism industry, with the creation of feedback loops allowing travellers to comment and rate every stage of their trip, helping to improve future experiences.

Alongside AI, the Internet of Things is also on the rise. For instance, KLM Airlines have developed smart seats in collaboration with the Delft University of Technology.

As today’s business traveller demands a personalised, seamless, smooth and hassle-free experience, the travel industry should be stepping up and looking to create ‘experience first’ strategies.